The chicest – and most practical – work bags for women
Our favourite styles for the nine-to-five
All products are chosen independently by our editors. Luxury London may earn commission on items purchased.
Finding the perfect work bag is no mean feat. Is it big enough? Is it smart enough? Will it withstand a rainy London commute? All good questions, all very important. Equally essential is style, because nobody wants a shabby, fuddy-duddy tote killing their vibe. In fact, often it’s the accessories that bring that pièce de résistance to your everyday ensembles.
A good, reliable work bag blends both form and function. It needs to be roomy with enough space to carry the essentials (think the likes of your laptop, charger, notebook, snacks and makeup bag), but not too big and bulky that it’s heavy and cumbersome – a recipe for shoulder and back ache and moody fellow commuters on the morning train ride.
Look for styles that are complete with added compartments and zipped pockets to help streamline the contents inside and provide expert organisation so you can find each item easily. Many designs also come with detachable shoulder straps so you can vary between on your shoulder and in your hand when on-the-go all day while it carries you from formal board meetings with clients to evening cocktails and weekend lunches with friends and family.
Looking for some inspiration to add to your workwear wardrobe? Here’s our favourite bags that work as hard as you do.
Bottega Veneta Barbara tote bag
A textured, timeless style with roomy interiors and Italian charm. Pair with your slickest tailoring from commute to cocktails.
The Row Marlo 14 tote bag
Minimal in aesthetic, refined in style and capacious in design, simplicity never looked so good. A great transitional option from winter to summer.
Stow London Everyday Tote
A chic embossed croc leather in deep burgundy and featuring handy zip pockets, we’ll be fashioning this one far beyond the office.
Aspinal of London London tote
You can’t go wrong with a classic black work bag, and Aspinal of London’s ticks all the boxes. Smart but elegant, roomy but not over-the-top large, it’s perfect for days in the city.
Tusting Twyford Tote
A lighter hue for a fresh, modern look, take all the essentials on the move with you with Tusting’s tote, without compromising on style.
Demellier The Hudson
A striking look for powerful women, The Hudson bag means business with a structured silhouette, spacious interior and feminine burgundy colourway.
Coach Soft Empire Carryall bag
Coach’s vintage-inspired bag is ideal for the everyday commute and running between meetings, thanks to its sizable design and versatile aesthetic that will go with just about everything.
Gucci Jackie tote bag
Soft and light in structure and tone, and extra roomy for the days when you have a lot to carry, make Gucci’s tote your work bag of choice for the perfect balance of style and practicality.
Read more: Elevated basics: Nine ways to style a blazer
